Africa-Press – Namibia. Government continues to make steady progress in addressing the shortage of school infrastructure and related amenities, following the construction of 42 new classrooms at various schools in the Otjozondjupa region.
During the 2024/25 period, government has invested over N$23 million through the education ministry to construct an additional 42 classrooms at schools in Grootfontein, Okahandja and Otjiwarongo.
An extra N$3.4 million was spent on school furniture, such as desks and chairs.
“To address the widespread shortage of furniture in schools, the directorate of education in the region rolled out a school furniture refurbishment programme. This is a key initiative in collaboration with key stakeholders, such as Khorab Secondary School, Paresis Secondary School, COSDEC-Otjiwarongo, NamWater HRD Centre and Namibia Correctional Services.
“To date, around 2 846 desks and 3 325 chairs have been refurbished and distributed to schools, while 1 014 desks and 1 312 chairs are still under repair. This project was allocated a total budget of N$3.4 million, with a current expenditure of N$2.2 million. It continues to make a tangible difference in improving the learning environment across the region,” said Otjozondjupa governor John //Khamuseb.
Furthermore, through a dedicated budget of N$11.3 million, the line ministry initiated major renovation works at Okakarara Primary School, Okahandja Secondary School and Kalfeld Primary School, all of which were affected by wind and storms during the last rainy season.
“This intervention is crucial in restoring safe and conducive learning conditions for our learners. One of the key achievements is the establishment of the Grootfontein Primary School, which officially opened its doors at the start of the 2025 academic year. In addition, two schools that were previously operating under temporary arrangements in Otjiwarongo, namely the Otjiwarongo Project Primary School and the Orwetoveni Project Secondary School, have successfully moved into their newly constructed facilities,” he added.
Otjozondjupa region has a total of 56 968 learners, comprising 28 083 boys and 28 885 girls, supported by 1 959 dedicated teachers, of which 561 are males and 1 398 are females.
Despite commendable progress by government, the region continues to face challenges, such as ageing infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, hostel shortages and limited funding for development and capital projects. However, //Khamuseb remains committed amid the challenges.
He said efforts will continue to fully address all challenges facing the education sector, particularly in the region.
“However, the education ministry remains committed to improving access and quality of education through continued investment and innovative solutions. Increased funding is essential to address disparities and ensure safe, conducive learning environments for all learners in the region,” he added.
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